The Andhra Pradesh High Court has called for a significant shift away from India’s colonial-era policing system towards a more people-centric and democratic approach. The court noted that the police structure, methods, and legal framework have largely retained their colonial model, established by the Police Act of 1861, which was designed for control rather than citizen service.
This directive came as the court heard petitions alleging police interference in civil disputes concerning property. Petitioners claimed police pressured them to settle matters and intervened in cases already before legal forums. The court emphasized that police powers are granted by law and must be exercised fairly and proportionately, acting as guardians of constitutional principles rather than unchecked rulers.
The court clarified that while police are responsible for maintaining law and order, preventing crime, and protecting life and property, their duties do not extend to adjudicating civil rights between private parties. The resolution of civil disputes is entrusted to the judiciary, and executive authorities without adjudicatory powers cannot assume this role.
Acknowledging the limited police strength in Andhra Pradesh, with approximately 166.18 personnel per lakh population against the UN recommendation of 222, the court suggested that deploying resources to areas outside their jurisdiction is an inefficient use of limited resources. The court directed strict compliance with existing guidelines that prohibit police interference in civil ownership disputes unless a cognizable offense or threat to public peace is evident.
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Source: indianexpress.com
